Monkey Beach

I don't get people who criticize a movie adaptation because it didn't present a literal recreation of a book they liked. Adaptations are things in themselves that evolve from the need to fit ideas, characters, commentary, internal dialogue and spoken dialogue and more into a different medium with many constraints, not the least of which may be budget.

The only movie I know that almost completely follows the book is the Maltese Falcon -- good book, good movie. One of my favourite books, Catch 22, could never become a movie that way, and yet I have enjoyed both the movie and the short TV series based on it.

The same with Monkey Beach, a book I've read and loved at least three times. But I don't know how you could ever put the literal book on screen. And so I dropped my preconceptions about what it 'should be' and simply watched the movie -- and was mesmerized.

I loved the cinematography, I loved the music and soundtrack and the non-linearity of the storytelling. I found the movie both funny and moving and was knocked out by how good the acting was. I'm not a huge fan of Adam Beach, but he was perfect for the role of Uncle Mick. Glen Gould perfectly portrayed Josh, a traumatized man lashing out at everyone around him. I loved Mama-oo, and young Lisa and can't say enough good things about how right Grace Dove was carrying Lisa's story to its bitter-sweet conclusion.

What can I say? A movie adaptation is like an impressionist painting -- it's not a photograph, it's an experience and a feeling and I'm feeling very good about Ms. Todd's impression of Monkey Beach.

There is no doubt for some that we (Indigenous) still have connections with our ancestors, but for others it will take a vision of sorts to make it easier to understand. I feel that this movie was created with the intention to beckon our spirits into remembering how to listen for the teachings that will help us navigate through two worlds. My hands go up in gratitude for all who made it possible - I am so proud of the good work you've done for many. Thank you Loretta Todd for generously providing my family & many dear ones the opportunity to witness this beautiful creation \('o')/

Unless you're spiritual or unless you believe in mysticism, I'd take a pass on Monkey Beach. I was persuaded to watch it based on the generous reviews it has garnered on this website. I can report that it wasn't my cup of tea.

Loretta Todd did an amazing job of directing a particularly complex script. A young Haisla woman with the ability to perceive spirits and future events, returns home to reconnect with her family and community. While grappling with the darkness that is so common in Indigenous communities, she finds her power from the interactions with her people and through ceremony and spiritual journeying, the magic of her spirit powers are fully realized. The spirit world reveals her shamanic ancestral roots. The imagery is breathtaking and captures the natural beauty of northern BC. What better way to the oppressors than to find your own power.

In a world of remakes and predictable storylines cheesy premises spewing out from Hollywood. This movie is pure original art from a novel that opens your mind to the things you have never known before. Take in the breathtaking scenery and the absolutely beautiful performances . Please watch if you can and enjoy.